Black Coffee is known for his deep, soulful house music compilations. He has undoubtedly cemented his place amongst the best DJs in Africa. Fans all over the world love his playlist, and Black Coffee has been listed on international DJ lists. You surely don't get that kind of recognition without skill, talent and ambition. Here is Black Coffee's biography.
Black Coffee whose real name is Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo was born on 11 March 1976 in Umlazi, Durban, South Africa. He later moved 29km away to Umtata, Ngangelizwe township from Qunu village, the home of Nelson Mandela.
Black Coffee’s hand was badly injured when he was a child from a taxi accident he was involved in, in 1990 on the eve of Nelson Mandela’s release.
He and his grandma joined the crowds lined up the streets in celebration. Suddenly, as he narrated on Real Talk with Anele Mdoda, he heard a bang that sounded like a shooting than a car crash.
The impact of the accident left him paralysed on the left arm. The good news was that it didn't have to be amputated. The arm still had life in it so the doctors opted out of the decision to cut it off.
In 2017, Black Coffee came clean about the story behind his arm after years of concealing his condition.
The popular DJ said that other kids would be mean to him because of his ‘imperfections.’ But he now says that everyone should fight to be the best version of themselves.
He said: “We all have little or big things that we don’t like about ourselves and we often put ourselves down before other people do. I’m personally working towards breaking those chains in my space, and I believe with this, I’m gonna unlock even more opportunities for myself. Don’t let anything pull you down.”
Black Coffee pursued Jazz Studies at the then Technikon Natal, now the Durban University of Technology. He worked as a backup singer for Madala Kunene.
During this time, he began singing with his schoolmates Mnqobi Mdabe (AKA Shota) and Thandukwazi Sikhosana (AKA Demor). The trio then formed the Afro-pop trio called SHANA (Simply Hot and Naturally African).
Black Coffee's Career | Source: Instagram
Black Coffee’s songs have, over time, become international hits. He came into the spotlight in 2004 after he participated in the Red Bull Music Academy in Cape Town. Black Coffee’s first big break was when his song, ‘Happiness’, was featured on the ‘DJs at Work’ album.
Black Coffee launched his career in 2005 with a remix of Hugh Masekela's 1972 hit Stimela. The same year, he released his debut album titled Black Coffee.
The album, Black Coffee, which sampled songs of many famous South African artists including Thandiswa Mazwai, also featured Busi Mhlongo. The album was well-received. Later on, he also established his record company, Soulistic Music.
By mid-2007, Black Coffee had become a recognised name in the South African DJ scene. His music had tribal and vocal-laced beats. He released a second studio album that featured a remix of Victor Ntoni's 2004 jazz ballad "Thetha".
Black Coffee's Career | Source: Instagram
The remix called "Wathula Nje" was released in Europe alongside “Even Though'', which featured Bantu Soul. These were released through a European label, Realtone Records.
The album featured 12 tracks and many other artists like Busi Mhlongo and Kwaito sensation L'vovo. It also debuted a 17-year-old high school producer from Eshowe KwaZulu Natal, Culoe De Song, who became the second artist to be signed under Soulistic Music.
Black Coffee discovered and collaborated with Culoe De Song on an afro-electronic dub titled 100 Zulu warriors.
In 2009, Black Coffee recorded his third album titled Home Brewed. It featured greats such as Ringo Madlingozi, Zonke, Hugh Masekela, Zakes Bantwini, and others.
Black Coffee’s next album, Africa Rising, was released at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. A live band and a 24-piece orchestra played in front of an audience of 8000 people.
He also filmed a DVD by the same name. His label also had many releases that year, including songs Culoe de Song's "Elevation" Sai & Ribatones, "Here and Now" Boddhi Satva's "Invocation", and the label's "Soulistic Music Cuts".DJ Black Coffee | Source: Instagram
In 2012, Black Coffee experienced huge success as the "Africa Rising" DVD and triple-CD sold double platinum in just a month. Then the following year, he performed at Southport Weekender, Panorama Bar, Circoloco, and Boiler Room.
DJ Black Coffee took part in music conferences like ADE and RBMA in Johannesburg. He collaborated with Mi Casa and the house duo, Black Motion.
He also became one of the key speakers on his friend Vusi Thembekwayo's tour. In South Africa, he was featured in the Destiny Man edition of Destiny in November 2013.
In January 2015, Black Coffee decided it was time to go international. In August, he went on his first world tour to Circoloco, Mexico. Also in 2015, he released his fifth album which went platinum.
Music critics judged it to be one of the best music albums of the year. The album featured Azola, Portia Monique, Ribatone, Nakhane Toure, Mondli Ngcobo, Kensy, NaakMusiq, and Lungi Naidoo.
Black Coffee | Source: Instagram2016 was another big year for Black Coffee. He performed at two of the biggest music festivals in the world, the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Ultra Music Festival. By the end of the year, he was ranked 91 on Resident Advisor’s list of top 100 DJs.
In 2017, he collaborated with Drake on his album ‘More Life’. He contributed to the beat of the song. The following year, he collaborated with David Guetta on ‘Drive’ which featured Delilah Montagu.
At the end of 2017, he released the EP Music is King. In 2019, he released “LaLaLa” with American R&B singer Usher.
Black Coffee’s newly released studio album, ‘Subconsciously’, is his sixth. It has 12 tracks on it, mainly afro and deep-house.
It features many top musical artists such as international stars Usher, David Guetta, Diplo, Pharrell Williams, and more.
Black Coffee | Source: InstagramAs of now, ‘Subconsciously’ is DJ Black Coffee’s latest album. It’s been met with rave reviews thanks to its powerful tracks and stellar singers.
"Black Coffee" (2005), "Have Another One" (2007), "Home Brewed" (2009), "Africa Rising DVD" (2012), "Africa Rising CD" (2012), "Pieces of Me" (2015), "The Journey Continues" EP (2016), "Music is King EP" (2018), and "Subconsciously" (2021)
While ‘best’ is subjective, DJ Black Coffee is certainly one of the most accomplished DJs in Africa. He’s a highly accomplished and extremely talented artist with international Top DJ lists including him within their rankings.
One such publication is DJ Mag, considered one of the most prestigious magazines in house and dance music.
Black Coffee and Enhle Mbali | Source: InstagramBlack Coffee married Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, an actress and TV presenter. She’s famous for her breakthrough role in our homegrown TV series Tshisa. Enhle also launched a maternity wear range in 2015. Black Coffee and Enhle have two children.
In July 2019, Enhle and Black Coffee separated. This was occasioned by an alleged affair the DJ had with the French socialite Cathy Lobé, the ex-wife of international superstar DJ David Guetta.
Enhle and Black Coffee tied the knot in a traditional wedding in 2011 before they exchanged vows in an opulent white wedding in 2017.
After his divorce, Black Coffee has been dating Alexandra Cane, a 27-year-old make-up artist from Hertfordshire, England.
Black Coffee's Children | Source: InstagramEnhle and Black Coffee have two children together. Black Coffee has two other kids from a previous relationship.
There are also rumours that he has sired two more children out of wedlock. It’s these rumours that led to the breakdown of his marriage.
Black Coffee’s kids are named Lilitha Maphumulo, Anesu Maphumulo, Esona Maphumulo, and Asante Maphumulo.
Black Coffee's ex-wife Enhle Mbali accused him of assault and sought a protection order against him. She alleged that she endured emotional, verbal, physical, and financial abuse during their marriage and also accused him of having extramarital affairs. Black Coffee has denied the allegations.
Enhle Mbali accused DJ Black Coffee of not financially supporting his kids as well as psychological torture. The actress made these allegations on social media but Black Coffee equally denied all allegations. He posted screenshots of his receipt bills to prove that he took care of his family.
Black Coffee owns a CLK Mercedes, a Mercedes Benz G Station Wagon, a Bentley, and a Maserati.
Black Coffee's Mercedez Benz G Wagon Station | Source: Instagram
Black Coffee's Car | Sources: Instagram
Black Coffee’s house is estimated to be worth about 7.4 million in ZAR. The property sits in a posh area and has many bedrooms furnished with exotic amenities. He owns a home in New York as well.
Black Coffee's Penthouse | Source: Twitter
Inside Black Coffee's House | Source: Twitter
Black Coffee's net worth of $60 million or R875 million underscores his position as the second richest musician in Africa. He makes this amount from his career as a DJ, his endorsement deals and businesses.
Black Coffee's Private Jet | Source: InstagramYes, DJ Black Coffee owns a branded private jet complete with his branding and the South African flag. He’s even promised international superstar Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs that he’d give him a ride someday.
Black Coffee wins the Grammy Award | Source: Instagram
We all know that Black Coffee is the master of the decks and we have come to appreciate his skills. His colleagues in the industry have also done the same, which is why he's won so many awards throughout his career.
The biggest moment of his career came in 2022 when he won the Grammy Award in its 64th edition, in a ceremony held in Las Vegas.
2022: Grammy Award for the Best Electronic/Dance Album
In 2010, Black Coffee attempted to make a Guinness World Record. He performed for 60 hours non-stop at Soweto’s Maponya Mall.
In 2010, he also won two awards in Best Urban Dance Album and Best Male Artist categories at the South African Music Awards.
Black Coffee's Instagram: @RealBlackCoffee
Black Coffee's Facebook: Black Coffee
Black Coffee's Twitter: @RealBlackCoffee
DJ Black Coffee is certainly one of the best. He’s a highly accomplished and extremely talented artist with international Top DJ lists including him within their rankings. One such publication is DJ Mag, considered one of the most prestigious magazines in house and dance music.
Black Coffee married Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa in 2011 but the couple ended their marriage in 2019 after claims of infidelity on Black Coffee's part.
Black Coffee's net worth of $60 million or R875 million underscores his position as the second richest musician in Africa. He makes this amount from his career as a DJ, his endorsement deals and businesses.
Black Coffee is one of the richest musicians in Africa. He comes second after Akon with a net worth of $60 million dollars.
Black Coffee is known for his deep, soulful house music compilations. He has undoubtedly cemented his place amongst the best DJs in Africa. Fans all over the world love his playlist, and Black Coffee has been listed on international DJ lists. You surely don't get that kind of recognition without skill, talent and ambition. Here is Black Coffee's biography.
Black Coffee whose real name is Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo was born on 11 March 1976 in Umlazi, Durban, South Africa. He later moved 29km away to Umtata, Ngangelizwe township from Qunu village, the home of Nelson Mandela.
Black Coffee’s hand was badly injured when he was a child from a taxi accident he was involved in, in 1990 on the eve of Nelson Mandela’s release.
He and his grandma joined the crowds lined up the streets in celebration. Suddenly, as he narrated on Real Talk with Anele Mdoda, he heard a bang that sounded like a shooting than a car crash.
The impact of the accident left him paralysed on the left arm. The good news was that it didn't have to be amputated. The arm still had life in it so the doctors opted out of the decision to cut it off.
In 2017, Black Coffee came clean about the story behind his arm after years of concealing his condition.
The popular DJ said that other kids would be mean to him because of his ‘imperfections.’ But he now says that everyone should fight to be the best version of themselves.
He said: “We all have little or big things that we don’t like about ourselves and we often put ourselves down before other people do. I’m personally working towards breaking those chains in my space, and I believe with this, I’m gonna unlock even more opportunities for myself. Don’t let anything pull you down.”
Black Coffee pursued Jazz Studies at the then Technikon Natal, now the Durban University of Technology. He worked as a backup singer for Madala Kunene.
During this time, he began singing with his schoolmates Mnqobi Mdabe (AKA Shota) and Thandukwazi Sikhosana (AKA Demor). The trio then formed the Afro-pop trio called SHANA (Simply Hot and Naturally African).
Black Coffee's Career | Source: Instagram
Black Coffee’s songs have, over time, become international hits. He came into the spotlight in 2004 after he participated in the Red Bull Music Academy in Cape Town. Black Coffee’s first big break was when his song, ‘Happiness’, was featured on the ‘DJs at Work’ album.
Black Coffee launched his career in 2005 with a remix of Hugh Masekela's 1972 hit Stimela. The same year, he released his debut album titled Black Coffee.
The album, Black Coffee, which sampled songs of many famous South African artists including Thandiswa Mazwai, also featured Busi Mhlongo. The album was well-received. Later on, he also established his record company, Soulistic Music.
By mid-2007, Black Coffee had become a recognised name in the South African DJ scene. His music had tribal and vocal-laced beats. He released a second studio album that featured a remix of Victor Ntoni's 2004 jazz ballad "Thetha".
Black Coffee's Career | Source: Instagram
The remix called "Wathula Nje" was released in Europe alongside “Even Though'', which featured Bantu Soul. These were released through a European label, Realtone Records.
The album featured 12 tracks and many other artists like Busi Mhlongo and Kwaito sensation L'vovo. It also debuted a 17-year-old high school producer from Eshowe KwaZulu Natal, Culoe De Song, who became the second artist to be signed under Soulistic Music.
Black Coffee discovered and collaborated with Culoe De Song on an afro-electronic dub titled 100 Zulu warriors.
In 2009, Black Coffee recorded his third album titled Home Brewed. It featured greats such as Ringo Madlingozi, Zonke, Hugh Masekela, Zakes Bantwini, and others.
Black Coffee’s next album, Africa Rising, was released at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. A live band and a 24-piece orchestra played in front of an audience of 8000 people.
He also filmed a DVD by the same name. His label also had many releases that year, including songs Culoe de Song's "Elevation" Sai & Ribatones, "Here and Now" Boddhi Satva's "Invocation", and the label's "Soulistic Music Cuts".DJ Black Coffee | Source: Instagram
In 2012, Black Coffee experienced huge success as the "Africa Rising" DVD and triple-CD sold double platinum in just a month. Then the following year, he performed at Southport Weekender, Panorama Bar, Circoloco, and Boiler Room.
DJ Black Coffee took part in music conferences like ADE and RBMA in Johannesburg. He collaborated with Mi Casa and the house duo, Black Motion.
He also became one of the key speakers on his friend Vusi Thembekwayo's tour. In South Africa, he was featured in the Destiny Man edition of Destiny in November 2013.
In January 2015, Black Coffee decided it was time to go international. In August, he went on his first world tour to Circoloco, Mexico. Also in 2015, he released his fifth album which went platinum.
Music critics judged it to be one of the best music albums of the year. The album featured Azola, Portia Monique, Ribatone, Nakhane Toure, Mondli Ngcobo, Kensy, NaakMusiq, and Lungi Naidoo.
Black Coffee | Source: Instagram2016 was another big year for Black Coffee. He performed at two of the biggest music festivals in the world, the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Ultra Music Festival. By the end of the year, he was ranked 91 on Resident Advisor’s list of top 100 DJs.
In 2017, he collaborated with Drake on his album ‘More Life’. He contributed to the beat of the song. The following year, he collaborated with David Guetta on ‘Drive’ which featured Delilah Montagu.
At the end of 2017, he released the EP Music is King. In 2019, he released “LaLaLa” with American R&B singer Usher.
Black Coffee’s newly released studio album, ‘Subconsciously’, is his sixth. It has 12 tracks on it, mainly afro and deep-house.
It features many top musical artists such as international stars Usher, David Guetta, Diplo, Pharrell Williams, and more.
Black Coffee | Source: InstagramAs of now, ‘Subconsciously’ is DJ Black Coffee’s latest album. It’s been met with rave reviews thanks to its powerful tracks and stellar singers.
"Black Coffee" (2005), "Have Another One" (2007), "Home Brewed" (2009), "Africa Rising DVD" (2012), "Africa Rising CD" (2012), "Pieces of Me" (2015), "The Journey Continues" EP (2016), "Music is King EP" (2018), and "Subconsciously" (2021)
While ‘best’ is subjective, DJ Black Coffee is certainly one of the most accomplished DJs in Africa. He’s a highly accomplished and extremely talented artist with international Top DJ lists including him within their rankings.
One such publication is DJ Mag, considered one of the most prestigious magazines in house and dance music.
Black Coffee and Enhle Mbali | Source: InstagramBlack Coffee married Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, an actress and TV presenter. She’s famous for her breakthrough role in our homegrown TV series Tshisa. Enhle also launched a maternity wear range in 2015. Black Coffee and Enhle have two children.
In July 2019, Enhle and Black Coffee separated. This was occasioned by an alleged affair the DJ had with the French socialite Cathy Lobé, the ex-wife of international superstar DJ David Guetta.
Enhle and Black Coffee tied the knot in a traditional wedding in 2011 before they exchanged vows in an opulent white wedding in 2017.
After his divorce, Black Coffee has been dating Alexandra Cane, a 27-year-old make-up artist from Hertfordshire, England.
Black Coffee's Children | Source: InstagramEnhle and Black Coffee have two children together. Black Coffee has two other kids from a previous relationship.
There are also rumours that he has sired two more children out of wedlock. It’s these rumours that led to the breakdown of his marriage.
Black Coffee’s kids are named Lilitha Maphumulo, Anesu Maphumulo, Esona Maphumulo, and Asante Maphumulo.
Black Coffee's ex-wife Enhle Mbali accused him of assault and sought a protection order against him. She alleged that she endured emotional, verbal, physical, and financial abuse during their marriage and also accused him of having extramarital affairs. Black Coffee has denied the allegations.
Enhle Mbali accused DJ Black Coffee of not financially supporting his kids as well as psychological torture. The actress made these allegations on social media but Black Coffee equally denied all allegations. He posted screenshots of his receipt bills to prove that he took care of his family.
Black Coffee owns a CLK Mercedes, a Mercedes Benz G Station Wagon, a Bentley, and a Maserati.
Black Coffee's Mercedez Benz G Wagon Station | Source: Instagram
Black Coffee's Car | Sources: Instagram
Black Coffee’s house is estimated to be worth about 7.4 million in ZAR. The property sits in a posh area and has many bedrooms furnished with exotic amenities. He owns a home in New York as well.
Black Coffee's Penthouse | Source: Twitter
Inside Black Coffee's House | Source: Twitter
Black Coffee's net worth of $60 million or R875 million underscores his position as the second richest musician in Africa. He makes this amount from his career as a DJ, his endorsement deals and businesses.
Black Coffee's Private Jet | Source: InstagramYes, DJ Black Coffee owns a branded private jet complete with his branding and the South African flag. He’s even promised international superstar Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs that he’d give him a ride someday.
Black Coffee wins the Grammy Award | Source: Instagram
We all know that Black Coffee is the master of the decks and we have come to appreciate his skills. His colleagues in the industry have also done the same, which is why he's won so many awards throughout his career.
The biggest moment of his career came in 2022 when he won the Grammy Award in its 64th edition, in a ceremony held in Las Vegas.
2022: Grammy Award for the Best Electronic/Dance Album
In 2010, Black Coffee attempted to make a Guinness World Record. He performed for 60 hours non-stop at Soweto’s Maponya Mall.
In 2010, he also won two awards in Best Urban Dance Album and Best Male Artist categories at the South African Music Awards.
Black Coffee's Instagram: @RealBlackCoffee
Black Coffee's Facebook: Black Coffee
Black Coffee's Twitter: @RealBlackCoffee
DJ Black Coffee is certainly one of the best. He’s a highly accomplished and extremely talented artist with international Top DJ lists including him within their rankings. One such publication is DJ Mag, considered one of the most prestigious magazines in house and dance music.
Black Coffee married Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa in 2011 but the couple ended their marriage in 2019 after claims of infidelity on Black Coffee's part.
Black Coffee's net worth of $60 million or R875 million underscores his position as the second richest musician in Africa. He makes this amount from his career as a DJ, his endorsement deals and businesses.
Black Coffee is one of the richest musicians in Africa. He comes second after Akon with a net worth of $60 million dollars.
